Moeraki Boulders

Moeraki Boulders, Waitaki

You simply can't drive along the North Otago coast without stopping to stare at the Moeraki Boulders - they're amazing!

Moeraki Boulders, Waitaki

By Pen-y-bryn Lodge

Moeraki Boulders, Waitaki

By Dominic Reichenbach

Moeraki Boulders, Waitaki

By Miles Holden

Moraki Boulders, Otago, Waitaki

By Stuck in Customs

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Moeraki is now most famous for its boulders; mysteriously spherical stones scattered across a beach. Each boulder weighs several tonnes and is up to two metres high.Scientists explain the boulders as calcite concretions formed about 65 million years ago. According to Maori legend, the boulders are gourds washed ashore from the great voyaging canoe Araiteuru when it was wrecked upon landfall in New Zealand hundreds of years ago.

How to get to Moeraki Boulders

The boulders are located on Koekohe Beach, between the towns of Moerkai and Hampden. It is an easy (and very scenic) drive on State Highway 1 from the north or south.

Coming from the North - Oamuru to Moeraki

The Boulders are about 40km (approx 30 minutes drive) south of Oamuru – along a stunning scenic road! Just follow State Highway 1 towards Hampden.

Coming from the South - Dunedin to Moeraki

The boulders are an approximately 1 hour drive (75km) north of Dunedin up State Highway 1.